Kenyans are set to observe a national public holiday on Friday, October 17, 2025, in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, who passed away while receiving medical treatment in India.
The government made the announcement through a special gazette notice No. 15007 published on Thursday by Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
The declaration was made under Section 3 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110), which allows the Cabinet Secretary to proclaim a public holiday when necessary.
Murkomen stated that the day will be dedicated to remembering and honouring the life and contribution of the departed statesman, who left a remarkable imprint on Kenya’s political and democratic history.
The gazette notice read that in the exercise of powers granted under the Act, the Interior Cabinet Secretary declares Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honour of the former Prime Minister.
The decision comes at a time when the country remains in deep mourning, reflecting on the life of a man who shaped Kenya’s politics for more than five decades.
Raila Odinga’s passing has triggered a wave of grief across Kenya and beyond, with leaders from across the political spectrum and foreign nations sending tributes acknowledging his lifelong commitment to democracy and justice.
Flags have been flying at half-mast nationwide since Wednesday, when confirmation of his death was made public, symbolizing national sorrow.
Condolence books have been opened in all government offices, Kenyan embassies abroad, and ODM offices to give the public an opportunity to express sympathy and pay tribute to the late leader.
Preparations are ongoing for his body’s return from India, with the national funeral committee coordinating closely with his family to ensure smooth arrangements and a dignified farewell.
The government announced that the late Prime Minister’s body will arrive in Kenya on Thursday morning.
According to the official programme released by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who co-chairs the national funeral committee, a delegation will arrive in Mumbai at 1am, before departing for Nairobi at 2am.
The plane carrying Raila’s body will land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 8:30am and proceed to Lee Funeral Home.
From noon to 5pm, the body will lie in state at Parliament Buildings for public viewing, allowing Kenyans to pay their final respects.
On Friday, October 17, a state funeral service will take place at Nyayo National Stadium starting at 8am.
After the service, the procession will head to his Karen home, where an overnight vigil will be held in his honour.
The following day, Saturday, October 18, the body will be flown to Kisumu County for public viewing at Moi Stadium between 9am and 3pm.
Later, the procession will move to his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, where final burial preparations will take place.
Deputy President Kindiki noted that Raila Odinga had expressed his wish to be laid to rest within seventy-two hours of his death, though logistical challenges due to his passing in India have made it necessary to adjust the timelines.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen assured the public that the government is working hand in hand with the Odinga family to ensure that all ceremonies and events reflect the honour and dignity befitting his status as a national hero.
Raila Odinga, 80, served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 during the Grand Coalition Government that followed the disputed 2007 election.
He was also a five-time presidential contender and the long-serving leader of the Orange Democratic Movement.
His political life was defined by resilience, activism, and an unyielding fight for democracy and constitutional reform.
The declaration of a public holiday will allow citizens from all walks of life to pause and reflect on his immense contribution to the nation.
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